- Freshmen Olivia Olson (21 points) and Syla Swords (15 points) score 36 combined
- Michigan converts 17 Washington turnovers into 24 decisive points
- Wolverines set up rematch with No. 15 Maryland in quarterfinals
- Washington's Dalayah Daniels posts 22-point, 10-rebound double-double
- Michigan improves to 21-9 with third straight postseason win
In a thrilling Big Ten Tournament showdown, Michigan's first-year stars orchestrated a 66-58 victory over Washington at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Olivia Olson dominated with 21 points while Syla Swords added 15, their chemistry shining during a critical 13-0 third-quarter run that shifted momentum permanently. The Wolverines' defensive intensity forced 17 turnovers, translating to nearly a third of their total score.
The game turned decisively when Michigan held Washington scoreless for 5:17 in the third period. Olson scored nine consecutive points during this stretch, showcasing the footwork and mid-range game that's made her a top freshman nationally. When we lock in defensively, our offense flows naturally,Michigan coach Kim Barnes Arico noted postgame.
Washington mounted a late rally behind Elle Ladine's 16 points, cutting the deficit to 63-56 with 1:56 remaining. But critical misses from Hannah Stines and Teagan Brown sealed their fate. The Huskies shot just 38% from the field, struggling against Michigan's switching zone defenses.
Jordan Hobbs provided crucial support with 11 points and six rebounds, while Wolverines guards contained Washington's typically potent three-point attack to 28% accuracy. Olson's performance marked her eighth 20-point game this season, tying Michigan's freshman scoring record set by Hallie Thome in 2016.
Strategic Insight: Michigan's 24 points off turnovers reveal their growing postseason maturity. This metric has improved 18% since February, coinciding with Olson's move to point-forward. Teams converting 20+ turnover points now hold a 31-9 record in Power 5 conference tournaments.
Regional Spotlight: The Wolverines' defensive blueprint mirrors recent successes by Big Ten rivals Indiana and Iowa, who both emphasize forcing baseline turnovers. This Midwestern strategy has limited West Coast teams like Washington to 2-7 records in cross-regional matchups this season.
Friday's quarterfinal pits Michigan against Maryland, who won their February meeting 85-77. The Terrapins' perimeter shooting remains a concern - they average 9.2 threes per game compared to Michigan's 6.8. However, the Wolverines boast better rebounding margins (+4.1 vs. Maryland's +2.3).
With this win, Michigan strengthens its NCAA Tournament resume while Washington awaits a WNIT bid. The freshman-led performance signals a bright future for the program, potentially mirroring South Carolina's 2022 championship team that started two first-year players.